complement 1 of 2

Definition of complementnext
1
as in supplement
something that serves to complete or make up for a deficiency in something else with his practicality and her refreshing enthusiasm, they are perfect complements to each other

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2
as in capacity
the largest number or amount that something can hold a full complement of sailors on the ship

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complement

2 of 2

verb

as in to adorn
to serve as a completing element to this silk handkerchief will complement your suit very nicely and give it a bit of dash

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of complement
Noun
For me, theatrical and streaming complement each other. Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 12 May 2026 Blue light blocking glasses have moderate evidence for evening use as a complement to lighting changes, not a replacement. Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 9 May 2026
Verb
The hope is that the Grove complements the existing amenities. Jessica Riley, CBS News, 17 May 2026 Kelce complemented the singer’s look, wearing a Marni Slawn Cotton Camp Shirt with floral prints and patches from Marni's collaboration with artists Olaolu Slawn and Soldier Boyfriend, and dark pinstripe pants. Escher Walcott, PEOPLE, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for complement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complement
Noun
  • While JoAnne recoils from Duncan’s machinations, her son Orson finally bottoms out in the supplement pit of the manosphere.
    Scott Tobias, Vulture, 17 May 2026
  • As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
    Sarah Anzlovar, Verywell Health, 17 May 2026
Noun
  • Amy Dolinky, technical adviser for opioid settlement funds planning and capacity building at the Michigan Association of Counties, told Bridge that some of the counties that had not spent opioid funds as of December have recently completed planning and are preparing to disburse money in 2026.
    CBS News, CBS News, 18 May 2026
  • Among adult patients who have the capacity to make their own medical decisions, autonomy (with rare exceptions like suicide) generally wins out — even in scenarios, as in my field of adult intensive care unit (ICU) medicine, where the consequences can be dire.
    Adam W. Gaffney, STAT, 18 May 2026
Verb
  • Jaxon Smith-Njigba is mesmerizing in space, and dynamic playmakers adorn every level of this Seahawks roster.
    Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 16 May 2026
  • These desserts are presented on an artful seasonal tower adorned with soft greenery and foliage.
    Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
Noun
  • Julian Champagnie took over Harrison Barnes’ starting spot in San Antonio and has been an athletic upgrade who is durable and reliable while providing accurate volume shooting.
    Law Murray, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • Although adept at large-volume production, the garment-maker is responding to sourcing strategy shifts, as brands seek out faster turnarounds and closer collaboration with their suppliers.
    Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 18 May 2026
Verb
  • Both forwards scored Wednesday, and both enhanced the opportunities of several teammates.
    Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 May 2026
  • The dermatology and wellness center blends functional and aesthetic medicine to offer treatments designed to enhance natural features rather than dramatically alter them.
    Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 14 May 2026
Noun
  • The lawsuit cites a New York Times story in which a real estate consultant who tracks local trends in the Miami condo market, Peter Zalewski, estimated the property could sell for at least $360 million.
    Aysha Bagchi, USA Today, 13 May 2026
  • For investors looking for more flexible real estate options, Mauritius offers a list of residency-by-real-estate-investment programs, including the option to obtain a residence permit by purchasing an eligible property for at least $375,000.
    Brittany Chang, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 May 2026
Verb
  • So much that was hidden now completes the whole.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 19 May 2026
  • White Sox fans got the last laugh on Sunday afternoon as their squad completed a wild, thrilling comeback victory over their crosstown rivals.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 18 May 2026
Verb
  • Handwritten well-wishes and group photos from coworkers, friends, and family decorate the walls of Danh's hospital room.
    Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026
  • The place was brightly lit and sparingly decorated, with clusters of books that made no sense.
    Francesco Pacifico, The Dial, 12 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Complement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complement. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

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